Being exposed to a natural disaster, either directly through lived experience or indirectly through the media, stirs up various feelings of sadness, depression, anxiety and frustration. Communities and families around Australia have been touched by the recent floods in NSW and Queensland with many still coming to terms with what has happened. While others are rallying together to provide much needed moral and financial support.

As the clean-up continues, families are faced with the real presence of the disaster. Dealing with their emotions and providing support to their children and teenagers. How well young people cope, or manage any trauma, will depend on specific risk factors in existence before, during and after the event. It is vital to talk and listen to them to help them process their feelings.

Parents and caregivers need to remain vigilant in monitoring their children during this time and check in with them regularly. They may be distressed by images they have seen either physically or through social media and news reports. Young people may exhibit or experience a wide range of emotional reactions and it is therefore important to reassure them that what they are feeling is considered normal.

This Special Report offers a number of strategies to help support families during this time of recovery. We hope you take a moment to reflect on the information offered, and as always, we welcome your feedback. If this raises any concerns for you, a loved one or the wellbeing of your child, please seek medical or professional help.

Here is the link to your special report https://geelonghigh.vic.schooltv.me/wellbeing_news/special-report-flood-support-recovery